Can ROSS Service Coordinators work with an existing network of service providers to build the ROSS PCC?

Yes! In many cases, Service Coordinators can work with an existing network of providers who deliver services that would be beneficial for ROSS program enrollees. For example, if the housing authority or a nearby multifamily development administers the Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program, the FSS program will have an FSS PCC that includes service providers who focus on helping residents increase their earnings. Umbrella organizations like the United Way or the area association on aging may also organize regular meetings of service providers in the community. In many communities, a group of providers, known as a Continuum of Care, meets to coordinate services for people experiencing homelessness; these providers may provide services of interest to ROSS program participants. Where such a group already exists, ROSS Service Coordinators should strive to use it as the ROSS PCC (or a component of the ROSS PCC) to the extent its members provide services that ROSS participants need and the group is open to serving in this capacity.

What if the existing service network only partially addresses ROSS enrollees’ needs?

It may not be possible to achieve exact alignment between the service needs of ROSS enrollees and the services provided by members of an existing PCC or other existing network of providers. In this case, the Service Coordinator should strive to supplement the existing network with additional providers who can fill the gaps. Service Coordinators can tap existing PCC members for information about other organizations that would be effective additions to the PCC, or consult local provider directories.

What is the Family Self-Sufficiency program?

The Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program helps residents of HUD-assisted housing increase their earnings and build financial assets through case management or coaching provided by an FSS program coordinator and an escrow account that grows as residents’ earnings increase. All FSS programs are required to establish and maintain a PCC.

Springfield Housing Authority (Springfield, IL)

Once identified, the Service Coordinator should conduct outreach to enlist participation in the PCC. The Service Coordinator may have to establish a second network of providers, and rely on each group to cover a different component of the ROSS program.

For example, FSS PCCs generally focus on helping residents with employment, and their connections may be beneficial for a ROSS program that helps residents make progress toward economic independence. However, the ROSS Service Coordinator may wish to supplement the FSS PCC with additional providers who focus on more fundamental needs, such as life skills training.

Similarly, providers of senior services may already meet as part of a network convened by the local agency on aging or United Way. The service offerings of this network may meet the needs of elderly people and persons with disabilities, but if the ROSS program also serves families with children, the Service Coordinator may need to create a supplemental network of service providers focused on this population.